DIGE: Past and Future - Difference Gel Electrophoresis (DIGE): Methods and Protocols - page 3

Chapter 1
DIGE: Past and Future
Jonathan S. Minden
Abstract
This chapter provides a brief historical perspective of the development of difference gel electrophoresis,
from its inception to commercialization and beyond.
Key words: Difference gel electrophoresis, Historical perspective
1. Introduction
As the inventor of difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE), I was
asked to contribute a historical perspective of this method. This
story is similar to other inventions where something was created to
solve an unmet need. In the case of DIGE, I wanted to understand
protein changes in different mutant backgrounds. The unusual
element of this story is that many of the ancillary tools needed
to make the invention work did not exist when the idea was fi rst
hatched. It took more than a dozen years before these other
technologies progressed far enough to make the entire process
feasible. In this chapter, I will recount the history of the invention
of DIGE—a humbling exercise that underscores my naiveté. As
with any method, there are always ways to enhance and improve it.
While the chemistry of DIGE is fairly well established and stable,
the ancillary tools are continually being improved. However, there
are persistent technological issues that will need to be resolved.
In addition to the historical past of DIGE, I will outline some of
the future challenges I see for DIGE.